France said it was closely
following events in Zimbabwe and stressed respect for constitutional law after
the southern African country’s military seized power early on Wednesday.

“We reiterate our attachment to
constitutional law and respect of the legitimate aspirations of the Zimbabwean
people,” French foreign ministry spokeswoman, Agnes Romatet-Espagne said during
a daily media briefing.

“We encourage all parties to find
a peaceful solution within this framework and without violence.”

Reuters reports that it is not
clear whether the apparent military coup will bring a formal end to President
Robert Mugabe’s rule. Zimbabwe’s military said the 93-year-old leader and his
family were safe.